The CW 103 - Advanced Wheel Throwing Workshop (6 weeks)

CW 103: Advanced Wheel Throwing

(Please read update below — this workshop has been revised)

Important Update

CW 103 has been revised from previous semesters. While the name remains Advanced Wheel Throwing for consistency, the course itself has been updated to be a more natural progression from CW 102. This version focuses on refining technique, working with intention, and introducing more complex functional forms — rather than the heavy-clay, expert-level approach of past semesters.

If you were interested in projects in the previous 103, such as throwing two pieces, connecting them to create one large piece, we will hold special 3-week workshops in the near future that will focus solely on those type of projects.

Workshop Description

CW 103 is designed for students who feel confident with the skills taught in CW 102 and are ready for more focused refinement in their wheel-throwing practice. This workshop is ideal for potters who can center consistently, throw basic forms with control, and are ready to challenge themselves through more intentional projects.

In this 6-week course, we’ll continue building your foundational skills while introducing techniques and forms that require a bit more precision and planning. You will explore:

• Working comfortably with 2–3 lbs of clay and gradually moving toward 4–5 lbs as your skills grow
• Making more refined and complex functional forms, such as:
  • Larger bowls
  • Lidded jars
  • Plates
  • Forms requiring tighter control and proportion
• Throwing with repeatability — matching bowls, sets, or series with consistent dimensions
• Improving trimming, transitions, shaping, and finishing details
• Introducing the basics of production-style throwing and form planning
• Strengthening your control of wall thickness, curves, and intentional shaping

This course bridges the gap between intermediate skills and more advanced control. You’ll develop confidence in throwing larger pieces, executing multi-step projects, and creating functional ware with intention and consistency.

Clay Experience Required

To succeed in this course, students should be able to:

• Confidently center at least 2-3 lbs of clay unassisted
• Throw cylinders at least 4" tall unassisted
• Work comfortably with 2–3 lbs of clay
• Trim independently
• Demonstrate solid understanding of CW 102 techniques

Note: Completion of CW 102 does not automatically qualify a student for CW 103.
Students should enroll only when they feel confident in their ability to consistently execute 102-level skills. If you’re still developing consistency in centering, pulling, or trimming, we recommend taking — or repeating — CW 102 before advancing.

Refunds or transfers will not be granted to students who register without meeting these requirements.

Ensure you can commit to all class dates:

We plan our class dates far in advance to provide adequate notice for you to plan your life around our 6-week course. We ask that future students registering for this class commit to all class dates. We understand that life happens, and we do allow for one free make-up session. Make-up sessions are intended for students to catch up on missed class time and are not supervised by the teacher.

Cancellation Policy:

Cancellations are accepted up to 7 days before the first workshop date, and all cancellations are subject to a $50 administration fee. Cancellations made 6 days or less before the workshop will not be refunded. Once a workshop has begun, refunds will not be processed. We are a small business and must fill all spots in each class to pay our teachers and supply all materials and equipment.

Students attending the workshop must be at least 18 years old:

Our studio is a mature space designed for adults looking to unwind from their daily lives.